British and Irish Lions

The 25-year-old follows his fellow Lions Charlie Hodgson, Mark Cueto and Andy Titterrell, who all signed new deals with the Premiership club in recent months.

England international Sheridan, who joined Sale from Bristol two years ago, has agreed an extended contract until May 2008.

He is set to start in Friday night's Premiership opener against Edgeley Park visitors Newcastle.

"Andrew is the best loosehead in this country, and will soon, I am sure, become the best in the world," said Sharks rugby director Philippe Saint-Andre.

"We are a very ambitious club and we want to hold on to our best players."

Sheridan made five appearances on the Lions tour of New Zealand earlier this summer, including starts against New Zealand Maori and Manawatu.

Michael Hooper believes the British & Irish Lions' defeat to the Brumbies has given the Qantas Wallabies a boost ahead of Saturday's first Test in Brisbane.

Less than 24 hours after losing their unbeaten record in Canberra, the British & Irish Lions were given a huge boost on arrival in Brisbane when Wales wing George North was declared fit to play in the first Test on Saturday.

Qantas Wallaby wonder scrum half Will Genia is ready to torment the British & Irish Lions and end any hopes of a first Test series win in 16 years this month.